Italy Averted Russian-Linked Cyberattacks Targeting Winter Olympics Websites, Foreign Minister Says

According to Associated Press, Italy has foiled a series of cyberattacks targeting its foreign ministry offices, including one in Washington, as well as Winter Olympics websites and hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said the attempts were “of Russian origin” but did not provide further details. He noted that the prevented attacks began against Washington and extended to some Winter Olympics sites, including hotels in Cortina, just two days before the opening ceremony in Milan’s San Siro.

Italy’s Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi told parliament that 6,000 security officers are being deployed across the Games sites, with bomb disposal experts, snipers and anti-terrorism units. The Winter Olympics got underway on Wednesday, with curling matches in Cortina.